Apparatus, system and method for preventing water infiltration

ABSTRACT

Flood barrier systems include a plurality of vertical supports and a fabric barrier. A top end of the fabric barrier engages the supports. The systems further include a magnetic lock assembly and a base. The magnetic lock assembly is configured so that a magnetic force between the magnetic lock assembly and the base prevents water infiltration under the fabric barrier.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/994,996, filed Mar. 26, 2020, thecontents of which are incorporated by reference herein in theirentirety.

BACKGROUND

Water infiltration—particularly from flooding and stormwater—is amulti-billion dollar per year problem. In many parts of the world,flooding is routine—occurring on regular cycles (e.g., during an annualrainy season). Elsewhere, flooding is more sporadic—occurring onlyduring major storm events such as hurricanes. Many residential,commercial and industrial buildings—along with roads, bridges and otherdeveloped areas—are not designed to accommodate large water infiltrationevents. This often results in significant economic and human loss duringsuch water infiltration events.

Traditionally, individuals combatted water infiltration by means ofpermanent structures such as walls or dikes. However, such structuresare often unsightly, expensive and impracticable for many applications.Another traditional approach is the use of temporary structurescomprised of heavy, bulky barrier systems such as the use of sandbags oraluminum structural barriers to create a temporary “wall” aroundbuildings and other property. Such means have a number of setbacks;including the difficulty in transporting large quantities of sand, thetime intensive, manual labor involved in bagging sand to createsandbags, manual labor involved in constructing a temporary sandbag“wall” and manual labor involved in deconstructing and disposing of atemporary sandbag “wall” after a water infiltration event has ended.Other traditional means—such as using interlocking aluminum or plasticbarriers which can be filled with water or sand—have similarlimitations.

More recently, individuals have combatted water infiltration by means offabric flood barriers. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 9,453,316 discloses afabric flood barrier. However, this patent discloses the use of a groundskirt which is held in place by ballast bags.

SUMMARY

The present technology generally relates to an apparatus, a system ofconnectible apparatuses, and a method of using same which:

(i) Creates a temporary (i.e., a non-permanent) flood barrier system;

(ii) Creates a system which is easy to manufacture, install, deploy andstore; and

(iii) readily attaches and detaches from both horizontal and verticalsupports.

The System comprises:

(i) either:

-   -   (a) at least one vertical support member (such as a Bollard);        and/or    -   (b) at least one vertical rigidity member and at least one        reinforcement member;

(ii) a fabric barrier;

(iii) a magnetic lock assembly;

(iv) a ferrous base (e.g., made out of Grade 400 magnetic stainlesssteel); and

(v) (optionally) a support lock assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of the Fabric Flood Barrier System.

FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of the Fabric Flood Barrier System.

FIG. 3A depicts a perspective view of a Fabric Barrier having aplurality of Magnets.

FIG. 3B depicts a perspective view of a Fabric Barrier having a uniform,flexible Magnetic Material.

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of a Fabric Flood Barrier System.

FIG. 5. depicts an enlarged perspective view of the same Fabric FloodBarrier System shown by FIG. 4.

FIG. 6A depicts a perspective view of a Fabric Flood Barrier Systemimmediately before a water infiltration event.

FIG. 6B depicts a perspective view of a Fabric Flood Barrier Systemimmediately before a water infiltration event.

FIG. 6C depicts a perspective view of a Fabric Flood Barrier Systemduring a water infiltration event, i.e., FIG. 6C depicts the same FabricFlood Barrier System as shown by FIG. 6A during a water infiltrationevent.

FIG. 7A depicts a frontal view of a Fabric Flood Barrier System.

FIG. 7B depicts a side view of the Fabric Flood Barrier System shown inFIG. 7A.

FIG. 8A shows the deployment of a Fabric Flood Barrier System in arecessed building entranceway.

FIG. 8B shows a side view of the same Fabric Flood Barrier Systemdepicted in FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9 shows a Fabric Barrier attached to a plurality of bollards.

FIG. 10 shows a Fabric Barrier attached to a plurality of bollards.

FIG. 11 shows a sectional view of a Fabric Flood Barrier System.

FIG. 12A shows a sectional view of an embodiment of a bottom sealassembly.

FIG. 12B shows a sectional view of an embodiment of a bottom sealassembly.

FIG. 12C shows a sectional view of an embodiment of a bottom sealassembly.

FIG. 12D shows a sectional view of the same embodiment of the bottomseal assembly from FIG. 12C.

FIG. 13A depicts a cutaway view of a possible embodiment of a supportlock assembly.

FIG. 13B depicts a cutaway view of a possible embodiment of a supportlock assembly.

FIG. 13C depicts a cutaway view of a possible embodiment of a supportlock assembly.

FIG. 13D depicts a cutaway view of a possible embodiment of a supportlock assembly.

FIG. 14A depicts a perspective view of one possible embodiment of asupport lock assembly.

FIG. 14B depicts a perspective, exploded view of the support lockassembly embodiment shown by FIG. 14A.

FIGS. 14C, 14D and 14E depicts various views of one possible embodimentof a support lock assembly.

FIG. 15A depicts a cutaway view of one possible embodiment of a supportlock assembly.

FIG. 15B depicts a cutaway view of one possible embodiment of a supportlock assembly.

FIG. 16A depicts a cutaway view of an apparatus for joining together twoseparate Fabric Barriers called a “Linkage.

FIG. 16B shows an enlarged view of a Linkage.

FIG. 16C shows a top view of a Linkage.

FIG. 16D depicts a cutaway view of an alternative embodiment of aLinkage.

DRAWING REFERENCE NUMBER KEY 100 Fabric Flood Barrier System 101 DrySide 102 Wet Side 103 Bollard 105 Hem Cord 107 Fabric Barrier 107a BackWall 107b Side Wall 108 Fabric Hole 109 Deformation Area 111 MagneticLock Assembly 112 Ferrous Base (Not Shown) 113 Bollard Bolt 115 BollardNut 117 Self-Ballasting Area 118 Sealing Material 119 Magnet 119aMagnetic Material 121 Magnet Bolts 123 Flap 125 Stitch 127 Street Curb129 Tee 131 Cart 133 Reinforcement Cable 135 Water 137 Vertical SupportMember 139 Support Lock Assembly 141 Reinforcement Strap 143 Top End 145Bottom End 146 Recessed Building 147 Body 148 Adhesive 149 SealingMember 151 Cam Member 151a Front Plate 151b Back Plate 153 RotatableLocking Member 155 Barrier Anchor 157 Pin Hole 158 Mounting Bolts 159Mounting Holes 159a Ground Holes 160 Body Flange 161 Pin 163 AnchorCavity 164 Arcuate Body Edge 165 Cam Channel 166 Arcuate Edge 167Protrusion 168 Reinforcement Member 169 Weft Member 171 Warp Member 173Bollard Foundation 175 Design Flood Elevation 177 Predicted FloodElevation 179 Second Layer of Fabric 181 Third Layer of Fabric 183Reinforcement Belts 184 Pressure Diagram 185 Bottom Seal Assembly 187Ground Surface 189 Right Angle Groove 191 Angled Groove 193 Gasket 195Insert 196 Ground Insert 196a Edge 196b Narrow Opening 196c First Gap196d Second Gap 197 Channel 198 Locking Bolt Hole 198a Locking Bolt HolePortion 199 Locking Bolt 200 Storage Area 201 Linkage Member 203 LinkageHole 205 Plate 207 Plate Hole 209 Bolt 211 Arm 213 Fastener

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A system, devices, and method for preventing water infiltration aredisclosed herein.

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of the Fabric Flood Barrier System 100showing both the Dry Side 101 and the Wet Side 102 of such Fabric FloodBarrier System 100. The Fabric Flood Barrier System 100 comprises: (i) aplurality of vertical supports (such as the Bollards 103 shown byFIG. 1) (preferably spaced apart at regular intervals); (ii) a fabricbarrier 107; (iii) a Magnetic Lock Assembly 111; and (iv) a Ferrous Base112 (not shown). When the Fabric Flood Barrier System 100 is used toprevent water infiltration, a Deformation Area 109 will form. A Hem Cord105 is sewn into a top area of the Fabric Barrier 107. The Hem Cord 105further rigidifies and strengthens the Fabric Flood Barrier System 100.

In one embodiment, the Hem Cord 105 is sewn into the Fabric Barrier 107such that the Hem Cord 105 includes a plurality of loops. Each loop isplaced over a Bollard Bolt 113 and then compressed by tightening aBollard Nut 115 onto each Bollard Bolt 113 thereby compressing the HemCord 105 and helping to lock the Hem Cord 105 in place. In anotherembodiment (not shown in FIG. 1, the top area of the Fabric Barrier 107may be detachably affixed to each Bollard 103 by means of compressionengagement. More specifically, the top area of the Fabric Barrier 107 isengaged to each Bollard 103 by tightening a Bollard Nut 115 onto aBollard Bolt 113 thereby compressing the top area of the Fabric Barrier107 which contains the sewn-in Hem Cord 105.

The bottom area of the Fabric Barrier 107 may be detachably affixed tothe ground by means of magnetic engagement. More specifically, aMagnetic Lock Assembly 111 comprised of one or more magnetized elementsmagnetically engages with a Ferrous Base 112 (not shown by FIG. 1)comprised of one or more ferrous elements. The entire Fabric Barrier 107is made of material which is both: (a) impervious to water; and (b) isselected for its tensile strength in a given application. By way ofillustration, the Fabric Barrier 107 could be constructed out of suchhigh strength waterproof materials as nylon, polyester, or materialstypically use for sail cloth such as Kevlar®, Technora®, Spectra®,Dyneema®, Vectran® or coated or laminated sailcloth.

FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of the Fabric Flood Barrier System 100showing both the Dry Side 101 and the Wet Side 102 of such Fabric FloodBarrier System 100. FIG. 2 also shows a Self-Ballasting Area 117 of theFabric Barrier 107. The underside of the Self-Ballasting Area 117 mayoptionally be coated in a Sealing Material 118 (not shown) such asrubber or silicone to improve sealing. As water initially comes intocontact with the Wet Side 102 of the Fabric Flood Barrier System 100,the magnetic force between the Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 and theFerrous Base 112 (not shown) will be sufficient to prevent waterinfiltration under the Fabric Barrier 107 and into the Dry Side 101.Rather, water will pool on top of the Self-Ballasting Area 117. As thevolume of water increases, the hydrostatic pressure of the waterpressing down on the Self-Ballasting Area 117 will linearlyincrease—creating a stronger and strong seal between the underside ofthe Self-Ballasting Area 117 and the ground.

FIG. 3A depicts a perspective view of a Fabric Barrier 107 showing the“wet side” of the Fabric Barrier 107 while a corner of the FabricBarrier 107 is turned over to show part of the “dry side” of the FabricBarrier 107. A top portion of the Fabric Barrier 107 is rolled over tocreate a Flap 123. A Stitch 125 is then used to seal the Flap 123thereby creating a “pocket” for the Hem Cord 105 to pass through theFabric Barrier 107. A Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 is formed into thebottom of the Fabric Barrier 107. In the embodiment shown by FIG. 3A,this Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 comprises a plurality of Magnets 119which are mounted on the “dry side” of the Fabric Barrier 107. EachMagnet 119 is detachably affixed to the Fabric Barrier 107 by means ofMagnet Bolts 121 which connect into threaded holes in the Magnetic LockAssembly 111 of the Fabric Barrier 107. In the preferred embodiment, theMagnets 119 would be permanent, high-strength Neodymium bar magnetshaving two threaded bolt holes. Optionally, a gasket (not shown in FIG.3A), e.g., a foam or rubber gasket—with a width of approximately ⅛ of aninch, could be attached to the Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 in-betweeneach of the Magnets 119.

FIG. 3B depicts a perspective view of a Fabric Barrier 107 showing the“wet side” of the Fabric Barrier 107 while a corner of the FabricBarrier 107 is turned over to show part of the “dry side” of the FabricBarrier 107. A top portion of the Fabric Barrier 107 is rolled over tocreate a Flap 123. A Stitch 125 is then used to seal the Flap 123thereby creating a “pocket” for the Hem Cord 105 to pass through theFabric Barrier 107. A Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 is formed into thebottom of the Fabric Barrier 107. In the embodiment shown by FIG. 3B,this Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 comprises a uniform, flexible MagneticMaterial 119 a such as flexible magnetic tape. This Magnetic Material119 a is mounted on the “dry side” of the Fabric Barrier 107.

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of a Fabric Flood Barrier System 100having a Dry Side 101 and a Wet Side 102. In the configuration shown byFIG. 4, the Fabric Flood Barrier System 100 is deployed to prevent waterinfiltration from a street on the Wet Side 102 to the Dry Side 101. AMagnetic Lock Assembly 111 comprised of one or more magnetized elementsmagnetically engages with a Tee 129 made of a ferrous material which ispermanently attached to a Street Curb 127. The Fabric Barrier 107 has aSelf-Ballasting Area 117 (which is ballasted by the weight of floodwater on top of a horizontal portion of the Fabric Barrier 107 on theground).

Moreover, a magnetic seal of the Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 keeps theflood water from getting under the barrier. The underside of theSelf-Ballasting Area 117 may optionally be coated in a Sealing Material118 (not shown) such as rubber or silicone to improve sealing. As waterinitially comes into contact with the Wet Side 102 of the Fabric FloodBarrier System 100, the magnetic force between the Magnetic LockAssembly 111 and a ferrous metal base (in the preferred embodiment, aTee 129) will be sufficient to prevent water infiltration under theFabric Barrier 107 and into the Dry Side 101. Rather, water will pool ontop of the Self-Ballasting Area 117. As the volume of water increases,the hydrostatic pressure of the water pressing down on theSelf-Ballasting Area 117 will linearly increase—creating a stronger andstrong seal between the underside of the Self-Ballasting Area 117 andthe ground. An optional deployment Cart 131 is also shown by FIG.4—showing how the Fabric Barrier 107 can be readily rolled up and storedfor future use.

FIG. 5. depicts an enlarged perspective view of the same Fabric FloodBarrier System 100 shown by FIG. 4. In FIG. 5, the Magnetic LockAssembly 111 is comprised of a plurality of Magnets 119 which aremounted on the “dry side” of the Fabric Barrier 107. Each Magnet 119 isdetachably affixed to the Fabric Barrier 107 by means of Magnet Bolts121 which pass through holes in the Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 of theFabric Barrier 107. In the preferred embodiment, the Magnets 119 wouldbe permanent, high-strength Neodymium bar magnets having two bolt holes.The Tee 129 is permanently attached to a Street Curb 127. As can be moreclosely seen in FIG. 5, the Tee 129 can either be formed into the StreetCurb 127 at the time the Street Curb 127 is poured out of cement or theTee 129 can be retrofitted to a pre-existing Street Curb 127 by cuttinga channel into the Street Curb 127 and adhering the Tee 129 by using anadhesive such as mortar or epoxy. Alternatively, some streets arealready made with ferrous metal curbs (e.g., steel curbing). In suchapplications, the Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 would magnetically engagewith the ferrous metal curb itself—eliminating the need for a Tee 129.

FIG. 6A depicts a perspective view of a Fabric Flood Barrier System 100immediately before a Water 135 infiltration event. A Fabric Barrier 107is detachably affixed to a plurality of Bollards 103. The bottom portionof the Fabric Barrier 107 has a Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 comprised ofone or more magnetized elements which magnetically engage with a FerrousBase 112 (not shown by FIG. 6A) comprised of one or more ferrouselements. The edge of the Fabric Barrier 107 is detachably affixed to aVertical Support Member 137 by means of a Support Lock Assembly 139. ASelf-Ballasting Area 117 is formed towards the bottom part of the FabricBarrier 107. Additionally, the Fabric Flood Barrier System 100 shown byFIG. 6A includes a plurality of optional Reinforcement Cables 133. EachReinforcement Cable 133 is connected to the ground on one end and aBollard 103 on the other end—helping to distribute the load placed onthe Bollard 103 when Water 135 begins to push against the Fabric Barrier107. Optionally, to anchor each Reinforcement Cable 133 to the ground,one end of each Cable could be attached to a screw in or driven earthanchor such as a DUCKBILL® earth anchor.

FIG. 6B depicts a perspective view of a Fabric Flood Barrier System 100immediately before a Water 135 infiltration event. A Fabric Barrier 107is detachably affixed to a plurality of Bollards 103. The bottom portionof the Fabric Barrier 107 has a Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 comprised ofone or more magnetized elements which magnetically engage with a FerrousBase 112 (not shown by FIG. 6A) comprised of one or more ferrouselements. The edge of the Fabric Barrier 107 is detachably affixed to aVertical Support Member 137 by means of a Support Lock Assembly 139. ASelf-Ballasting Area 117 is formed towards the bottom part of the FabricBarrier 107. Additionally, the Fabric Flood Barrier System 100 shown byFIG. 6B includes a plurality of optional Reinforcement Straps 141. EachReinforcement Strap 141 has a Top End 143 and a Bottom End 145. The TopEnd 143 is attached to the top portion of the Fabric Barrier 107 and theBottom End 145 is attached to the Self-Ballasting Area 117 of the FabricBarrier. The Reinforcement Straps 141 help distribute the load placed onthe Bollards 103 when Water 135 begins to push against the FabricBarrier 107. Indeed, in some configurations, the Reinforcement Straps141 would bear all of the load from the Water 135. In suchconfigurations, the load-bearing Bollards 103 could be replaced by othervertical supports (such as a thin, flexible rod) for the purpose ofkeeping the Fabric Flood Barrier System 100 erect whenever there is noWater 135 pushing up against the Fabric Barrier 107.

FIG. 6C depicts a perspective view of a Fabric Flood Barrier System 100during a Water 135 infiltration event, i.e., FIG. 6C depicts the sameFabric Flood Barrier System 100 as shown by FIG. 6A during a Water 135infiltration event. A Fabric Barrier 107 is detachably affixed to aplurality of Bollards 103. The bottom portion of the Fabric Barrier 107has a Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 (not shown by FIG. 6C) comprised of oneor more magnetized elements which magnetically engage with a FerrousBase 112 (not shown by FIG. 6C) comprised of one or more ferrouselements. The edge of the Fabric Barrier 107 is detachably affixed to aVertical Support Member 137 by means of a Support Lock Assembly 139. ASelf-Ballasting Area 117 (not shown by FIG. 6C) is formed towards thebottom part of the Fabric Barrier 107. Additionally, the Fabric FloodBarrier System 100 shown by FIG. 6C includes a plurality of optionalReinforcement Cables 133. Each Reinforcement Cable 133 is connected tothe ground on one end and a Bollard 103 on the other end—helping todistribute the load placed on the Bollard 103 when Water 135 begins topush against the Fabric Barrier 107.

FIG. 7A depicts a frontal view of a Fabric Flood Barrier System 100. TheFabric Barrier 107 has a Self-Ballasting Area 117 and a Magnetic LockAssembly 111. The Self-Ballasting Area 117 forms a seal for the FabricBarrier 107 when it is weighted down by Water 135 (not shown). An outeredge of the Self-Ballasting Area 117 comprises a Magnetic Lock Assembly111. In the embodiment shown by FIG. 7A, the Magnetic Lock Assembly 111further comprises a plurality of Magnets 119 (not shown) which areattached to the Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 using Magnet Bolts 121. TwoSupport Lock Assemblies 139 are connected to the two vertical edges ofthe Fabric Barrier 107.

FIG. 7B depicts a side view of the Fabric Flood Barrier System 100 shownin FIG. 7A. Here, the Magnets 119 and the Magnet Bolts 121 are clearlyvisible. Additionally, a Sealing Material 118 is shown on the undersideof the Self-Ballasting Area 117.

FIG. 8A shows the deployment of a Fabric Flood Barrier System 100 in aRecessed Building Entranceway 146. The Fabric Barrier 107 has a BackWall 107 a, two Side Walls 107 b, a Self-Ballasting Area 117 and aMagnetic Lock Assembly 111. Each Side Wall 107 b is attached to part ofthe Recessed Building Entranceway 146 (which part functions as aVertical Support Member 137) by a Support Lock Assembly 139. TheSelf-Ballasting Area 117 forms a seal for the Fabric Barrier 107 when itis weighted down by Water 135. An outer edge of the Self-Ballasting Area117 comprises a Magnetic Lock Assembly 111. In the embodiment shown byFIG. 8A, the Magnetic Lock Assembly 111 further comprises a plurality ofMagnets 119 (not shown) which are attached to the Magnetic Lock Assembly111 using Magnet Bolts 121.

FIG. 8B shows a side view of the same Fabric Flood Barrier System 100depicted in FIG. 8A. The pressure of the Water 135 at a given depth d isshown as Pd. Such pressure, Pa, is uniform in all directions at thedepth d. Thus, the corresponding force exerted on the Back Wall 107 aand each Side Wall 107 b at a given depth d is uniform. This causes theFabric Flood Barrier System 100 to “fill out” (i.e., expand) to sealitself against the walls of the Recessed Building Entranceway 146.Similarly, the pressure of the Water 135 at the bottom of the FabricFlood Barrier System 100 is shown as P_(Bottom). Such pressure,P_(Bottom), is uniform in all directions at the bottom of the FabricFlood Barrier System 100. Thus, the corresponding force exerted on theBack Wall 107 a and each Side Wall 107 b at the bottom of the FabricFlood Barrier System 100 is uniform. The pressure exerted on the FabricBarrier 107 increases linearly as the depth of Water 135 increases.

FIG. 9 shows a Fabric Barrier 107 with a height h₁ attached to aplurality of Bollards 103. The Fabric Barrier 107 has a plurality ofintegral Reinforcement Members 168 comprising vertical Weft Members 169and horizontal Warp Members 171. To increase the strength of the FabricBarrier 107, the Weft Members 169 and Warp Members 171 are ideally wovenand sewn together. The concentration of Reinforcement Members 168 varieswith the height of the Fabric Barrier 107. Thus, the greater the heightof the Fabric Barrier 107, the greater force the Fabric Barrier 107 canwithstand. This is important inasmuch as the force exerted by Water 135(not shown by FIG. 9) increases linearly with depth.

The Warp Members 171 near the top of the Fabric Barrier 107 have adiameter d₁ while the Warp Members 171 near the bottom of the FabricBarrier 107 have a diameter d₂. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, d1and d2 are equal, i.e., the same diameter Warp Members 171 are usedthroughout the Fabric Barrier 107. However, in alternative embodiments,the diameter of the Warp Members 171 can vary. For example, d₂, could begreater than d₁ to help the Warp Members 171 near the bottom of theFabric Barrier 107 handle an increased load as Water 135 (not shown byFIG. 9) is applied to the Fabric Barrier 107.

FIG. 10 shows a Fabric Barrier 107 (having a top and a bottom) attachedto a plurality of Bollards 103. Each Bollard 103 has a BollardFoundation 173 which anchors the Bollards 103 into the ground. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 10: (i) there is a uniform distribution ofvertical Weft Members 169 from the top to the bottom of the FabricBarrier 107; and (ii) the distribution of horizontal Warp Members 171increases from the top to the bottom of the Fabric Barrier 107. Morespecifically, the horizontal Warp Members 171 are spaced apart with adistance of h_(A) between a height h₁ to a height h2 of the FabricBarrier 107. Then, the horizontal Warp Members 171 are spaced apart adistance of h_(B) from a height h₂ to a height h₃ of the Fabric Barrier107. Finally, the horizontal Warp Members 171 are spaced apart adistance of h_(c) from a height h₃ to the bottom of the Fabric Barrier107.

FIG. 11 shows a sectional view of a Fabric Flood Barrier System 100having a Fabric Barrier 107 having a Dry Side 101 and a Wet Side 102. Aquantity of Water 135 is present on the Wet Side 102 and has a PredictedFlood Elevation 177 (i.e., the maximum recommended height of Water 135in connection with which this Fabric Barrier 107 is rated for use) and aDesign Flood Elevation 175 (i.e., the maximum height of Water 135 inconnection with which this Fabric Barrier 107 is designed for use) whichrepresents the Predicted Flood Elevation 177 plus a reasonable safetyfactor (such at 10%).

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the Fabric Barrier 107 is reinforcedwith a Second Layer of Fabric 179 a Third Layer of Fabric 181 and aplurality of Reinforcement Belts 183. A Pressure Diagram 184 is shownimmediately adjacent to the Fabric Flood Barrier System 100 and showingthe linear increase in pressure exerted by the Water 135 on the FabricBarrier 107 as the depth of the Water 135 increases. At a depth d₁,there is a corresponding pressure P₁, at a depth d₂, there is acorresponding pressure P₂ and a depth d₃ there is a correspondingpressure P₃ and at the ground level there is a pressure P_(Max). P₁ isthe maximum pressure which the Fabric Barrier 107 alone could sustain.Thus, the Second Layer of Fabric 179 begins above a depth of d₁. So too,P₂ is the maximum pressure which the Fabric Barrier 107 and the SecondLayer of Fabric 179 together could sustain. Thus, the Third Layer ofFabric 181 begins above a depth of d₂. In the embodiment shown in FIG.11, the Reinforcement Belts 183 begin providing extra load bearingsupport at a depth of d₃ (which corresponds to a pressure of P₃).

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the Fabric Flood Barrier System 100also has a Bottom Seal Assembly 185 which is located near the end of aSelf-Ballasting Area 117 formed by the ground skirting of the FabricBarrier 107, i.e., when the Fabric Barrier 107 lays on the ground and iscompressed onto the ground by a force exerted by the pressure P_(Max) ofthe Water 135.

FIG. 12A shows an embodiment of a Bottom Seal Assembly 185. The BottomSeal Assembly 185 includes a Tee 129 which is made out of a ferrousmaterial. The Tee 129 is flush with a Ground Surface 187. The Tee 129magnetically engages with a Magnet 119 (or, alternatively, a MagneticMaterial 119 a (not shown in FIG. 12A)). The Magnet 119 is connected toa Magnetic Lock Assembly 111.

FIG. 12B shows an embodiment of a Bottom Seal Assembly 185. The BottomSeal Assembly 185 includes a Tee 129 which is made out of a ferrousmaterial. The Tee 129 is flush with a Ground Surface 187. The Tee 129also has a Right Angle Groove 189. The Right Angle Groove 189 isdimensionally sized to accommodate a Magnet 119 (or, alternatively, aMagnetic Material 119 a (not shown in FIG. 12A)). The Magnet 119 isconnected to a Magnetic Lock Assembly 111. Thus, the Tee 129 is engagedto the Magnet 119 through both: (i) magnetic engagement; and (ii)abutting engagement.

FIG. 12C shows an embodiment of a Bottom Seal Assembly 185. The BottomSeal Assembly 185 includes a Tee 129 which is made out of a ferrousmaterial. The Tee 129 is flush with a Ground Surface 187. The Tee 129also has an Angled Groove 191 having two edges. Both edges of the AngledGroove 191 have a Gasket 193 made out of a water-impervious materialsuch as rubber or silicone. Each Gasket 193 may be readily attached anddetached from the Angled Groove 191—allowing easy replacement as theGaskets 193 wear out over time. The Angle Groove 189 is dimensionallysized to accommodate a Magnet 119 (or, alternatively, a MagneticMaterial 119 a (not shown in FIG. 12A)) in-between the two Gaskets 193which, in turn, are compressed by the Magnet 119. The Magnet 119 isconnected to a Magnetic Lock Assembly 111. Thus, the Tee 129 is engagedto the Magnet 119 through: (i) magnetic engagement; (ii) abuttingengagement; and (iii) compression engagement.

FIG. 12D shows the same embodiment of the Bottom Seal Assembly 185 fromFIG. 12C. In FIG. 12D, an Insert 195 is placed into the Angled Groove191. Ideally, the Insert 195 is dimensionally sized to lie flush withthe Ground Surface 187. This Insert 195 helps keep the Angled Groove 191from filling with debris whenever the Bottom Seal Assembly 185 is not inuse with a Fabric Flood Barrier System 100 (not shown by FIG. 12D).

FIG. 13A depicts a cutaway view of a possible embodiment of a SupportLock Assembly 139 used to detachably affix a Fabric Barrier 107 to theground with the Fabric Barrier 107 having a Dry Side 101 and a Wet Side102. The Fabric Barrier 107 is connected to a Barrier Anchor 155. TheBarrier Anchor 155 could be a Hem Cord 105 or some other reinforcementattached to the Fabric Barrier 107. In the ideal embodiment, a topportion of the Fabric Barrier 107 is rolled over to create a Flap 123. AStitch 125 is then used to seal the Flap 123 thereby creating a “pocket”for the Barrier Anchor 155 to pass through the Fabric Barrier 107. AGround Insert 196 is installed into the ground such that the GroundInsert 196 is flush with a Ground Surface 187. A Channel 197 is formedin the Ground Insert 196. An Anchor Cavity 163 is also formed in a sideof the Ground Insert 196. The Anchor Cavity 163 is dimensionally sizedto accommodate the Fabric Barrier 107/Barrier Anchor 155 assembly. A CamMember 151 may be inserted into the Channel 197. The Cam Member 151 isdimensionally sized to fit inside of the Channel 197 and abut againstthe Fabric Barrier 107—locking the Fabric Barrier 107/Barrier Anchor 155assembly into place inside of the Anchor Cavity 163.

FIG. 13B depicts a cutaway view of a possible embodiment of a SupportLock Assembly 139 used to detachably affix a Fabric Barrier 107 to theground with the Fabric Barrier 107 having a Dry Side 101 and a Wet Side102. The Fabric Barrier 107 is connected to a Barrier Anchor 155. TheBarrier Anchor 155 could be a Hem Cord 105 or some other reinforcementattached to the Fabric Barrier 107. In the ideal embodiment, a topportion of the Fabric Barrier 107 is rolled over to create a Flap 123. AStitch 125 is then used to seal the Flap 123 thereby creating a “pocket”for the Barrier Anchor 155 to pass through the Fabric Barrier 107. AGround Insert 196 is installed into the ground such that the GroundInsert 196 is flush with a Ground Surface 187. A Channel 197 is formedin the Ground Insert 196. A first Sealing Member 149 is affixed to theGround Insert 196 by an Adhesive 148. As the Sealing Member 149 wearsout, it can be replaced by using a solvent to remove the old Adhesive148, then reapplying the Adhesive 148 and using a replacement SealingMember 149.

A Rotatable Locking Member 153 is connected to the Ground Insert 196 bya Pin 161 (not shown) which passes through a Pin Hole 157 in the GroundInsert 196. The Rotatable Locking Member 153 is able to rotate about anaxis defined by the Pin 161. An Anchor Cavity 163 is partially formed ina side of the Ground Insert 196 and partially formed in the RotatableLocking Member 153. The Anchor Cavity 163 is dimensionally sized toaccommodate the Fabric Barrier 107/Barrier Anchor 155 assembly.

A Cam Member 151 may be inserted into the Channel 197. The Cam Member151 is dimensionally sized to fit inside of the Channel 197 and abutagainst the Fabric Barrier 107—locking the Fabric Barrier 107/BarrierAnchor 155 assembly into place inside of the Anchor Cavity 163. The CamMember 151 has a Front Plate 151 a and a Back Plate 151 b. A secondSealing Member 149 is affixed to the underside of the Front Plate 151 a.Optionally, the Front Plate 151 a and the Back Plate 151 b can includeMounting Holes 159 which align with Ground Holes 159 a—enabling the CamMember 151 to be anchored to the ground using fasteners such as bolts.

In operation, the Support Lock Assembly 139 operates as follows when theSupport Lock Assembly 139 is in a closed position and the Barrier Anchor155 has not yet been placed into the Anchor Cavity 163:

-   -   (i) Step One: the Cam Member 151 is removed from the Channel        197;    -   (ii) Step Two: the Rotatable Locking Member 153 is rotated from        an engaged position (i.e., at an angle of approximately ninety        degrees relative to the Channel 197) to an open position (i.e.,        at an angle of greater than ninety degrees relative to the        Channel 197);    -   (iii) Step Three: a Barrier Anchor 155 connected to a Fabric        Barrier 107 is inserted into a part of the Anchor Cavity 163        formed in the Ground Insert 196;    -   (iv) Step Four: the Rotatable Locking Member 153 is rotated from        the open position to the engaged position—locking the Barrier        Anchor 155 into the Anchor Cavity 163 and bringing the Fabric        Barrier 107 into contact with the first Sealing Member 149;    -   (v) Step Five: the Cam Member 151 is inserted into the Channel        197 locking the Rotatable Locking Member 153 into place and        bringing the Fabric Barrier 107 into contact with the second        Sealing Member 149; and    -   (vi) (Optionally) Step Six: fasteners are inserted into the        Mounting Holes 159 and the Ground Holes 159 a to anchor the Cam        Member 151 to the ground.

FIG. 13C depicts a cutaway view of a possible embodiment of a SupportLock Assembly 139 used to detachably affix a Fabric Barrier 107 to theground with the Fabric Barrier 107 having a Dry Side 101 and a Wet Side102. The Fabric Barrier 107 is connected to a Barrier Anchor 155. TheBarrier Anchor 155 could be a Hem Cord 105 or some other reinforcementattached to the Fabric Barrier 107. In the ideal embodiment, a topportion of the Fabric Barrier 107 is rolled over to create a Flap 123. AStitch 125 is then used to seal the Flap 123 thereby creating a “pocket”for the Barrier Anchor 155 to pass through the Fabric Barrier 107. AGround Insert 196 is installed into the ground such that the GroundInsert 196 is flush with a Ground Surface 187. A Channel 197 is formedin the Ground Insert 196. A first Sealing Member 149 is affixed to theGround Insert 196 by an Adhesive 148. As the Sealing Member 149 wearsout, it can be replaced by using a solvent to remove the old Adhesive148, then reapplying the Adhesive 148 and using a replacement SealingMember 149.

An Anchor Cavity 163 is formed in a portion of the Ground Insert 196.The Anchor Cavity 163 is dimensionally sized to accommodate the FabricBarrier 107/Barrier Anchor 155 assembly. A Cam Member 151 may beinserted into the Channel 197. The Cam Member 151 is dimensionally sizedto fit inside of the Channel 197. The Cam Member 151 has a Front Plate151 a and a Back Plate 151 b with such Back Plate 151 b having anunderside. A second Sealing Member 149 is affixed to the underside ofthe Front Plate 151 a—forming a First Gap 196 c between the first andsecond Sealing Members 149.

The Ground Insert 196 has a protruding Edge 196 a—forming a NarrowOpening 196 b between the underside of the Back Plate 151 b and the Edge196 a. The Fabric Barrier 107 passes through the Narrow Opening 196 b,around the underside of the Cam Member 151, through the First Gap 196 cand out of the Support Lock Assembly 139 through a Second Gap 196 dformed between the Cam Member 151 and the Ground Surface 187. TheChannel 197 also contains a Storage Area 200 which can be used to storethe Fabric Barrier 107 when it is rolled up for storage as shown in FIG.13C.

Optionally, the Front Plate 151 a and the Back Plate 151 b can includeMounting Holes 159 which align with Ground Holes 159 a—enabling the CamMember 151 to be anchored to the ground using fasteners such as bolts.

In operation, the Support Lock Assembly 139 operates as follows when theSupport Lock Assembly 139 is in a closed position and the Barrier Anchor155 has not yet been placed into the Anchor Cavity 163:

-   -   (i) Step One: the Cam Member 151 is removed from the Channel        197;    -   (ii) Step Two: a Barrier Anchor 155 connected to a Fabric        Barrier 107 is inserted into the Anchor Cavity 163;    -   (iii) Step Three: the Fabric Barrier 107 is rolled over the Edge        196 a and the first Sealing Member 149;    -   (iv) Step Four: the Cam Member 151 is inserted into the Channel        197 locking the Barrier Anchor 155/Fabric Barrier 107 assembly        into place and bringing the Fabric Barrier 107 into contact with        the second Sealing Member 149; and    -   (v) (Optionally) Step Five: fasteners are inserted into the        Mounting Holes 159 and the Ground Holes 159 a to anchor the Cam        Member 151 to the ground.

FIG. 13D depicts a cutaway view of a possible embodiment of a SupportLock Assembly 139 used to detachably affix a Fabric Barrier 107 to theground with the Fabric Barrier 107 having a Dry Side 101 and a Wet Side102. The Fabric Barrier 107 is connected to a Barrier Anchor 155. TheBarrier Anchor 155 could be a Hem Cord 105 or some other reinforcementattached to the Fabric Barrier 107. In the ideal embodiment, a topportion of the Fabric Barrier 107 is rolled over to create a Flap 123. AStitch 125 is then used to seal the Flap 123 thereby creating a “pocket”for the Barrier Anchor 155 to pass through the Fabric Barrier 107. AGround Insert 196 is installed into the ground such that the GroundInsert 196 is flush with a Ground Surface 187. A Channel 197 is formedin the Ground Insert 196. A Sealing Member 149 is affixed to the GroundInsert 196 by an Adhesive 148. As the Sealing Member 149 wears out, itcan be replaced by using a solvent to remove the old Adhesive 148, thenreapplying the Adhesive 148 and using a replacement Sealing Member 149.

A Cam Member 151 may be inserted into the Channel 197. The Cam Member151 is dimensionally sized to fit inside of the Channel 197. The CamMember 151 has a Front Plate 151 a and a Back Plate 151 b. When the CamMember 151 is inserted into the Channel 197, an underside of the FrontPlate 151 a comes into close proximity to the Sealing Member 149creating a First Gap 196 c. An Anchor Cavity 163 is formed in a side ofthe Cam Member 151 such that the Anchor Cavity 163 forms a crescent, “C”shaped notch in the side of the Cam Member 151. The Anchor Cavity 163 isdimensionally sized to accommodate the Fabric Barrier 107/Barrier Anchor155 assembly.

The Fabric Barrier 107 passes around the underside of the Cam Member151, through the First Gap 196 c and out of the Support Lock Assembly139 through a Second Gap 196 d formed between the Cam Member 151 and theGround Surface 187. The Channel 197 also contains a Storage Area 200which can be used to store the Fabric Barrier 107 when it is rolled upfor storage as shown in FIG. 13C.

Optionally, the Front Plate 151 a and the Back Plate 151 b can includeMounting Holes 159 which align with Ground Holes 159 a—enabling the CamMember 151 to be anchored to the ground using fasteners such as bolts.

In operation, the Support Lock Assembly 139 operates as follows when theSupport Lock Assembly 139 is in a closed position and the Barrier Anchor155 has not yet been placed into the Anchor Cavity 163:

-   -   (i) Step One: the Cam Member 151 is removed from the Channel        197;    -   (ii) Step Two: a Barrier Anchor 155 connected to a Fabric        Barrier 107 is inserted into the Anchor Cavity 163;    -   (iii) Step Three: the Fabric Barrier 107 is placed over the Edge        196 a and the first Sealing Member 149;    -   (iv) Step Four: the Cam Member 151 is inserted into the Channel        197 locking the Barrier Anchor 155/Fabric Barrier 107 assembly        into place through the abutting engagement and the compression        engagement of the Barrier Anchor 155 between the Cam Member 151        and the Ground Insert 196; and    -   (v) (Optionally) Step Five: fasteners are inserted into the        Mounting Holes 159 and the Ground Holes 159 a to anchor the Cam        Member 151 to the ground.

FIG. 14A depicts a perspective view of one possible embodiment of aSupport Lock Assembly 139. The Support Lock Assembly 139 comprises: (i)a Body 147; (ii) a Sealing Member 149; (iii) a Cam Member 151; (iv) aRotatable Locking Member 153; and (v) a Pin 161 (not shown by FIG. 14A).The Rotatable Locking Member 153 is connected to the Body 147 by the Pin161 which passes through two Pin Holes 157 in opposite sides of the Body147. The Sealing Member 149 is connected to the Body 147 on the Dry Side101 of the Body 147. The Rotatable Locking Member 153 is able to rotateabout an axis defined by the Pin 161. An Anchor Cavity 163 is defined byan opening partially formed in the Body 147 and partially formed in theRotatable Locking Member 153. In FIG. 14A, a Barrier Anchor 155 is showninserted into the Anchor Cavity 163. The Barrier Anchor 155 could be aHem Cord 105 or some other reinforcement attached to the Fabric Barrier107. The Barrier Anchor 155 is connected to a Fabric Barrier 107 (whichis not shown by FIG. 14A). A plurality of Mounting Holes 159 are shownon a Body Flange 160 which protrudes from the Body 147. In alternativeembodiments, the Body 147 could be made without a Body Flange 160. Insuch embodiments, the Mounting Holes 159 would be located within theBody 147 proper. A Cam Channel 165 is formed in the Body 147 and boththe Rotatable Locking Member 153 and the Cam Member 151 fit within theCam Channel 165. The Cam Channel 165 is also dimensionally sized toallow the Rotatable Locking Member 153 to rotate approximately ninety(90°) degrees from an “engaged” position (as shown by FIG. 13A) to an“open” position (not shown).

FIG. 14B depicts a perspective, exploded view of the Support LockAssembly 139 embodiment shown by FIG. 14A having a Wet Side 102 and aDry Side 101. In FIG. 13B, the Cam Channel 165 formed in the Body 147may be readily observed. The Cam Member 151 may optionally have anArcuate Edge 166. This Arcuate Edge 166 allows the Cam Member 151 tomore easily be placed into the Cam Channel 165 between the RotatableLocking Member 153 and the Body 147.

In operation, the Support Lock Assembly 139 shown by FIG. 14A and FIG.14B operates as follows when the Support Lock Assembly 139 is in aclosed position and a Barrier Anchor 155 has not yet been placed into anAnchor Cavity 163:

-   -   (i) Step One: the Cam Member 151 is removed from the Cam Channel        165;    -   (ii) Step Two: the Rotatable Locking Member 153 is rotated from        an engaged position (i.e., at an angle of approximately ninety        degrees relative to the Cam Channel 165) to an open position        (i.e., at an angle of greater than ninety degrees relative to        the Cam Channel 165);    -   (iii) Step Three: a Barrier Anchor 155 connected to a Fabric        Barrier 107 is inserted into a part of the Anchor Cavity 163        formed in the Body 147;    -   (iv) Step Four: the Rotatable Locking Member 153 is rotated from        the open position to the engaged position—locking the Barrier        Anchor 155 into the Anchor Cavity 163 with the Fabric Barrier        107 coming into contact with a Sealing Member 149; and    -   (v) Step Five: the Cam Member 151 is inserted into the Cam        Channel 165 locking the Rotatable Locking Member 153 into place.

After the steps outlined above, the Fabric Barrier 107 will becomepressed against the Sealing Member 149 once the weight of Water 135 (notshown) presses the Fabric Barrier 107 against the Sealing Member 149.Thus, the Wet Side 102 of the Support Lock Assembly 139 will be exposedto Water 135 while the Dry Side 101 will not be exposed to Water 135after the Fabric Barrier 107/Barrier Anchor 155 assembly is locked intothe Support Lock Assembly 139.

FIGS. 14C, 14D and 14E depict various views of one possible embodimentof a Support Lock Assembly 139. The Support Lock Assembly 139 comprises:(i) a Body 147; and a Cam Member 151. This Support Lock Assembly 139 hasthe advantage of having zero moving parts. The Body 147 of the SupportLock Assembly 139 further includes an Anchor Cavity 163 and a CamChannel 165. The Anchor Cavity 163 is dimensionally sided to accommodatea Barrier Anchor 155 with such Barrier Anchor 155 connected to a FabricBarrier 107. The Barrier Anchor 155 could be a Hem Cord 105 or someother reinforcement attached to the Fabric Barrier 107. A portion of theBody 147 above the Anchor Cavity 163 is curved; creating a Arcuate BodyEdge 164. In certain embodiments, the Arcuate Body Edge 164 couldcomprise a sealing material such as rubber or silicone. The Body 147also has a Protrusion 167 located above the Cam Channel 165. TheProtrusion 167 and the remainder of the Body 147 form a void which voidis dimensionally sized to accommodate the Cam Member 151. Finally, theBody 147 includes at least one Mounting Hole 159 (which can be used tomount the Support Lock Assembly 139 using Mounting Bolts 158 (notshown).

In operation, the Support Lock Assembly 139 shown by FIGS. 14C, 14D and14E operates as follows:

-   -   (i) Step One: the Barrier Anchor 155 connected to the Fabric        Barrier 107 is inserted into the Anchor Cavity 163; and    -   (ii) Step Two: the Cam Member 151 is inserted into the Cam        Channel 165 locking the Barrier Anchor 155 into place.

FIG. 15A depicts a cutaway view of one possible embodiment of a SupportLock Assembly 139. The Support Lock Assembly 139 comprises a Body 147, aRotatable Locking Member 153 and a Pin 161. The Rotatable Locking Member153 rotates about an axis defined by the Pin 161 in a space defined bythe “L” shape of the Body 147. The Rotatable Locking Member 153 has anupper portion through which there is a threaded Locking Bolt Hole 198. ALocking Bolt 199 is dimensionally sized to fit into the Locking BoltHole 198. An Anchor Cavity 163 is defined by an opening partially formedin the Body 147 and partially formed in the Rotatable Locking Member153. A threaded Locking Bolt Hole Portion 198 a is also located in theBody 147 such that the Locking Bolt Hole 198 and the Locking Bolt HolePortion 198 a align when the Rotatable Locking Member 153 is in anengaged position (i.e., at an angle of approximately zero degreesrelative to the Fabric Barrier 107). A Barrier Anchor 155 is connectedto a Fabric Barrier 107. The Barrier Anchor 155 could be a Hem Cord 105or some other reinforcement attached to the Fabric Barrier 107. TheBarrier Anchor 155/Fabric Barrier 107 assembly may be inserted into theAnchor Cavity 163. The Body 147 optionally includes at least oneMounting Hole 159 in connection with which a Mounting Bolt 158 can beused to attach the Body 147 to a support (not shown).

In operation, the Support Lock Assembly 139 shown by FIG. 15A operatesas follows:

-   -   (i) Step One: the Barrier Anchor 155/Fabric Barrier 107 assembly        is inserted into the Anchor Cavity 163;    -   (ii) Step Two: the Rotatable Locking Member 153 is rotated from        an open position (i.e., from an angle of approximately 45        degrees relative to the Fabric Barrier 107) to an engaged        position—locking the Barrier Anchor 155/Fabric Barrier 107        assembly into place; and    -   (iii) Step Three: the Locking Bolt 199 is threaded into the        Locking Bolt Hole 198 and the Locking Bolt Hole Portion 198        a—detachably affixing the Rotatable Locking Member 153 to the        Body 147.

FIG. 15B depicts a cutaway view of one possible embodiment of a SupportLock Assembly 139 which generally functions in the same way as theSupport Lock Assembly 139 depicted in FIGS. 14C, 14D and 14E.Additionally, a Sealing Member 149 (such as a resilient gasket) isattached to part of the Body 147. This Sealing Member 149 is positionedsuch that it comes into contact with the Fabric Barrier 107. As Water135 pushes the Fabric Barrier 107 onto the Sealing Member 149, the forceexerted by the Water 135 helps further seal the Fabric Barrier 107 tothe Sealing Member 149. FIG. 15B also shows a cutaway of a Cam Member151 having a generally rectangular cross section.

FIG. 16A depicts a cutaway view of an apparatus for joining together twoseparate Fabric Barriers 107 called a “Linkage.” FIG. 16B shows anenlarged view of this same Linkage while FIG. 16C shows a top view ofthis same Linkage. In the embodiment show in FIGS. 16A, 16B and 16C, aLinkage Member 201 is shown as having an approximately circular crosssection (and, thus, no sharp angles which could apply greater pressureon the Fabric Barriers 107). The Linkage Member 201 has a Linkage Hole203. The Linkage Hole 203 is dimensionally sided to accommodate a Bolt209. In one embodiment, the Linkage Hole 203 could be threaded to allowthe Bolt 209 to screw into Linkage Hole 203. In another embodiment, aFastener 213 (not shown) could attach to the Bolt 209 on the inside ofthe Linkage Member 201. A Plate 205 has a Plate Hole 207 which PlateHole 207 is also dimensionally sized to accommodate the Bolt 209. Eachof the Fabric Barriers 107 have a Hem Cord 105 and a Fabric Hole 108.Such Fabric Holes 108 could optionally be reinforced by a grommet (notshown). The Fabric Holes 108 are also dimensionally sized to accommodatethe Bolt 209.

To use this Linkage, a user passes the Bolt 209 through the Plate 205and through the two Fabric Holes 108. This should be done such that: (i)the two Fabric Barriers 107 protrude in opposite directions with respectto the Bolt 209; and (ii) the two Hem Cords 105 are on opposite sides ofthe Bolt 209. The Bolt 209 is also passed through the Linkage Hole 203in the Linkage Member 201. As the Bolt 209 is tightened down, the Plate205 and the Linkage Member 201 are compressed together—compressionfitting the two Fabric Barriers 107 and the two Hem Cords 105 in-betweenthe Linkage Member 201 and the Plate 205. Thus, the load applied to theFabric Barriers 107 is taken by the Hem Cords 105 and not by the FabricHoles 108. FIG. 16C also shows a plurality of Linkage Holes 203 spacedalong the length of the linkage.

FIG. 16D depicts a cutaway view of an alternative embodiment of aLinkage for joining together two separate Fabric Barriers 107. In thisembodiment, the Linkage comprises: (i) a Plate 205 having an Arm 211;and (ii) a Fastener 213 (such as a nut, wingnut, etc.). The Arm 211detachably engages with the Plate 205. In one embodiment, this is doneby means of having threading on the Arm 211 which screws into a threadedhole in the Plate 205. Each of the Fabric Barriers 107 have a Hem Cord105 and a Fabric Hole 108. Such Fabric Holes 108 could optionally bereinforced by a grommet (not shown). The Fabric Holes 108 aredimensionally sized to accommodate the Arm 211.

To use this Linkage, a user passes the Arm 211 through the two FabricHoles 108. This should be done such that: (i) the two Fabric Barriers107 protrude in opposite directions with respect to the Bolt 209; and(ii) the two Hem Cords 105 are on opposite sides of the Bolt 209. TheArm 211 is then detachably affixed to the Plate 205. Finally, theFastener 213 is tightened down—compression fitting together the twoFabric Barriers 107 between the Fastener 213 and the Plate 205. Thus,the load applied to the Fabric Barriers 107 is taken by the Hem Cords105 and not by the Fabric Holes 108.

We claim:
 1. A fabric flood barrier system comprising: a plurality ofvertical supports; a fabric barrier, wherein a top end of the fabricbarrier engages the supports; a magnetic lock assembly; and a base,wherein a the magnetic lock assembly is configured so that a magneticforce between the magnetic lock assembly and the base prevents waterinfiltration under the fabric barrier.
 2. The system of claim 1, whereinthe supports are bollards.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein thebollards are spaced apart at regular intervals.
 4. The system of claim1, wherein the base is a ferrous base.
 5. The system of claim 1, furthercomprising a hem cord sewn into a top area of the fabric barrier.
 6. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein a bottom area of the fabric barrier isdetachably affixed to the ground by magnetic engagement.